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Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

This Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. The combination of sweet cranberries, spicy jalapenos, and creamy cheese creates an irresistible flavor explosion that's both easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it with crackers, chips, or veggies for a delightful treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 2-3 jalapenos, seeded and finely minced
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro optional
  • Crackers, tortilla chips, or baguette slices for serving

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • Medium bowl
  • Mixing spoon
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Cheese grater
  • Plastic wrap
  • Refrigerator
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

  1. Rinse fresh cranberries thoroughly. If using frozen cranberries, no need to thaw.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, lime juice, and garlic powder.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cranberry mixture cool completely.
  5. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  6. Gently fold in the cooled cranberry mixture, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, minced jalapenos, and sliced green onions. If using, stir in the chopped cilantro.
  7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
  8. Before serving, give the dip a good stir. Serve with your favorite crackers, tortilla chips, baguette slices, or veggies.

Notes

Adjust the amount of jalapenos to your spice preference. For a milder dip, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to ensure a smooth dip. Cool the cranberry mixture completely before adding it to the cream cheese to prevent the dip from becoming runny. The dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Garnish with fresh cilantro or cranberries before serving for a festive touch.